Abstract: A method for applying a sequence of protective coatings to steel parts includes the steps of depositing a zinc coating, a chromate coating and a synthetic resin coating. The parts to be coated are supported on a hanger and carried thoughout the entire coating operation by a continous conveyer system. The zinc coating is electrolytically deposited from an alkaline non-cyanide electroplating bath to a thickness of from 0.05 to 0.2 mils. The zinc-coated parts are washed, and while still wet, are sprayed with an aqueous chromating solution. After rinsing and drying, a synthetic resin coating is applied to the chromate-coated parts by electrostatic powder spraying. The parts are then baked in an oven to fuse the resin coating. The method is particularly applicable to refrigerator racks.